In a previous video, we showcased the prestigious awards we received from YouTube. While that video focused on the excitement of receiving them, we didn’t have time to dive into how these awards were made. In this article, we’ll break down the materials and processes involved in their creation.
Watch the below video to learn more:
Watch Video on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NJJVB0McSNM
The Certificate Award
The first award we examined is the certificate from YouTube. Unlike traditional paper certificates, this one is made from a thick piece of perspex material. It features a back piece that allows it to be hung on a wall, which is simply glued on.
From a production perspective, this accessory could be laser cut from another piece of perspex with the necessary notches for easy attachment. The silver section on the front initially appeared to be silver vinyl, but after closer inspection of the double-sided tape used, it seems more likely to be a thin layer of silver material.
A practical approach to recreating this would be using a UV hybrid printer. If your printer lacks white ink in a double head, you’ll need to account for this, especially when printing the red “play” button. The process would involve printing directly onto silver vinyl, applying it to a 5mm perspex sheet, and then laser cutting the attachment piece before securing it with hot glue or super glue.
The Main YouTube Award
The second award in our collection is the most intricate and complex. It consists of multiple aluminium pieces that are precisely cut and assembled.
Upon close examination, the printed elements on the award appear to be UV printed rather than pad-printed or silk-screened, as there are visible print lines. The aluminium components likely underwent routing or extrusion before assembly. The back of the award features a felt layer, which prevents it from scratching surfaces when mounted. This felt is simple to apply using self-adhesive glue.
To recreate this award, you would need:
- A flatbed printer to print onto aluminium.
- A router to cut out the aluminium sections.
- A small play button made from routed aluminium.
- A mirrored component, which could be a PET mirror with a reflective coating, cut to fit and glued behind the play button.
The frame itself presents a challenge since extruding aluminium isn’t easily accessible. An alternative method would be routing out a hollow section from a solid aluminium block while ensuring the front remains brushed aluminium. The play button and mirror would then be inserted from behind, followed by securing the backing piece and adding the felt layer. The final step would be UV printing on the front surface.
The YouTube Play Button Award
The final award, the iconic YouTube Play Button, is our favourite. It is crafted from solid aluminium, featuring a brushed aluminium finish that extends across both the front and back.
To replicate this brushed effect, a router must be used with careful attention to detail, ensuring the grain runs horizontally rather than vertically. The printed elements on the award, at first glance, appear pad-printed or silk-screened. However, upon closer inspection, fine print lines suggest UV printing was used.
To manufacture this award:
- Route the play button design from a solid aluminium block, ensuring the brushed effect is preserved.
- Use a flatbed UV printer with white ink to apply the printed design.
- Create a play button insert by routing out a recessed section of about 3–4mm.
- Cut a PET mirror to fit the recess and secure it with hot glue.
- Attach a small printed section at the bottom, which displays details about the award creator.
- Finally, apply a felt strip to the back so the award can stand upright when displayed.
Final Thoughts
After analyzing these awards, it’s clear that their creation requires precise machinery and attention to detail. If you’re considering making similar awards, investing in the right equipment—such as routers, flatbed UV printers, and laser cutters—is essential. By following these methods, you can replicate these prestigious awards with accuracy.
We hope this breakdown helps you understand the craftsmanship behind YouTube’s awards. Thanks for reading, and we’ll see you in the next one!
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